Have you ever been walking down the street and stepped on a piece of gum that someone had casually thrown away?
Not only is it annoying, but it’s also dirty and not very attractive. You take pride in keeping the outside of your home clean, so you know how important it is to get gum off of streets. But did you know that taking out your gums isn’t just for looks?
It’s also about safety and making sure people don’t slip and fall. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of gum removal and look at the best ways to keep your sidewalks clean and safe. So, let’s get a cup of coffee and get started!
Gum Removal for Outdoor Surfaces
Methods for Removing Gum
There are several ways to get gum off of things outside.
One way is to mix dish soap, vinegar, or WD-40 in equal parts.
Apply the cleaner to the gum, scrub the area, and let it sit for 10 minutes before removing the gum with a plastic spatula or spoon.
You can also use toothpaste, which breaks down how sticky the gum is.
Gum can also be taken off of surfaces like stainless steel, carpets, and pavement with olive oil, mayonnaise, and vinegar.
For gum that has dried and stuck to concrete, you can use a gum cleaner like RADO.
If you shake the can well and spray it right on the gum, the gum will freeze right away.
To get the gum off the surface, use a hand brush.
You can also use a power washer to remove gum stains from concrete.
You can clean the surface with just water or water and a detergent.
Precautions when Removing Gum
To avoid hurting the surface, you should be careful when removing gum and test the method first.
For example, scraping gum off a stainless steel surface with metal can leave scratches and gouges in the shine.
Before you start the job, it’s also important to protect the surface and have the right cleaning tools, like water, soap, and towels.
Preparing for Gum Removal
Check the Label of the Cleaning Product
Checking the label on the cleaning product is the first step in getting ready to get rid of gum.
It is important to make sure the product works on the surface.
To keep the surface from getting damaged, it is also important to test a small, hard-to-see part of the surface.
If the cleaning product isn’t right for the surface, it could make the surface look bad or hurt it.
Using a Scraper
One way to get gum off of objects outside is to slowly scrape it off with a tool until the whole piece is gone.
Large pieces of gum that haven’t dried yet can be taken off with this method.
If the gum has dried, a gum remover can be sprayed on it and then scraped off with a hand tool.
Spraying Gum Remover
To use this method, put the straw that came with the gum remover on the opening of the can, shake the can well before using, and spray the gum remover directly on the gum from about 1 to 2 inches away.
The gum will freeze right away, and after 2–3 seconds, frost will form on it.
Start peeling the dried gum off the surface right away with a hand scraper.
Do this until the gum is completely gone.
Using Olive Oil
Olive oil can be used to get gum off of metal surfaces like a fridge or stove.
Pour olive oil on and around the gum, wait a minute or two for it to soak in, and then use a rubber spatula to slowly pry the gum off.
Use a microfiber cloth to remove any material that is still there.
Gum Removal Equipment
There are different kinds of tools that can be used to get gum off of outdoor surfaces.
The Gumwand is a battery-powered tool that can be used to remove gum from streets, pavement, tarmac, carpet, and tile.
It has an LPG canister, a cleaning solution container built in, a lithium battery that can be charged, and a pump.
The battery runs the pump, which puts about three milliliters per second of cleaning fluid into the vaporizer.
A built-in heater is powered by the LPG.
The battery can be used for more than 36 hours straight and takes about two hours to charge.
About five to six hours can be gotten out of each jar.
The user doesn’t have to work as hard to move the Gumwand because it has wheels.
You can use a nylon brush indoors on rugs and tiles.
The Gumwand cleaning solution is made from an organic sugar beet that has been made into a solution that works well for cleaning.
Hot Water Pressure Washing Equipment
Commercial cleaning services also use custom-made hot water pressure washing tools to remove gum from sidewalks and other surfaces.
With this equipment, special soaps and chemicals are used to clean the surface without damaging it.
To get the gum off, non-metal stiff hair brushes are used, and a wood or plastic spatula is used to scrape off as much gum as possible before cleaning.
Gum Removal Machines
There are also tools that can remove gum, like the Gum Reaper, which breaks up gum on carpet and many indoor and outdoor hard surfaces.
Gum can also be taken off of entrance mats, rugs, and other similar surfaces with a vapour steam machine.
Before removing the gum, chemicals and cleaners may need to be sprayed on it to soften it.
This can be done with a hand sprayer or a foam sprayer.
The AstraSteam Gumblaster is another choice.
It can get rid of all kinds of chewing gum from almost any surface quickly, cheaply, and without stopping business as usual.
Safety and Time Considerations
Safety should always come first when it comes to getting gum off of outdoor surfaces.
Here are some important things to remember before you start the job:
- Do not save unused portions of stain-removal materials, and do not store any chemicals in unmarked containers.
- Ensure that excellent ventilation is provided wherever any solvent is used, and use respirators with solvent.
- Have available antidote and accident treatment chemicals where noted.
Before you start getting rid of the gum, make sure you have enough water, soap, and towels for washing.
As soon as possible after using acid, the surface should be washed well with water.
Use special pressure washers with 200-degree hot water and low pressure to safely remove chewing gum and surface dirt from outdoor areas without damaging the surface.
Choosing the Right Disinfectant
When using disinfectants, it is important to choose a product that has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and to follow the instructions from the maker.
Cleaning is the first step in any process of disinfection because it gets rid of organic matter, salts, and obvious dirt, all of which get in the way of killing microbes.
A large number of microorganisms can be removed by scrubbing with soaps and surfactants and rinsing with water.
RADO+ Gum Remover
RADO+ Gum Remover is a safe and effective way to get gum off of objects outside.
This product is non-flammable and can be used on pavement, carpet, furniture, tile, linoleum, and wood.
To use RADO+, spray the gum spot for 2 to 5 seconds and then use a heavy-duty brush to get the gum off completely.
For bigger pieces or in hot places, it may take a few extra seconds to get the gum spot off.
Time Considerations for Gum Removal
How long it takes to get gum off of outdoor surfaces varies on how it was put there and how old it is.
Getting rid of gum is hard, and over time, it can leave black marks on pavement that seem impossible to get rid of.
Without the help of a skilled service, gum can take more than five years to break down on its own.
Professional gum removal services can get rid of gum and gum marks much more quickly and in a way that is gentle and doesn’t harm the environment.
For example, the pressure washing experts at Luffman’s Pressure Washing don’t scrape or use harsh chemicals to get rid of gum.
Instead, they use hot pressure washing methods.
To avoid damaging the concrete, you should use hot water and as little pressure as possible when cleaning gum from it.
Concrete can take up to 100 years to fully dry, so it is important to start by removing chewing gum with hot water and as little pressure as possible.
One company says that its paint stripper, which is made of emulsified chemicals, can be used to get rid of chewing gum.
This stuff is mixed with water and put on the concrete.
It stays there for up to 30 minutes, after which it is scraped off.
Say Goodbye to Gum: The Importance of Pavement Cleaning for Outdoor Surfaces
Have you ever walked down a sidewalk and noticed a sticky, black blob on the ground? Chances are, it’s gum.
Gum removal is a common issue for outdoor surfaces, and it’s not just unsightly – it can also be a safety hazard.
When gum is left on pavement, it can become slippery and cause people to slip and fall.
This is why pavement cleaning is so important.
But it’s not just about gum removal.
Pavement cleaning can also help remove other types of stains and debris, such as oil spills, dirt, and grime.
This not only improves the appearance of outdoor surfaces, but it also helps to prolong their lifespan.
Regular cleaning can prevent damage and deterioration caused by buildup over time.
So, if you want to keep your outdoor surfaces looking their best and ensure the safety of those who use them, don’t forget about pavement cleaning.
It may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference.
For more information:
Pavement Cleaning 101: Importance, Methods, & More
Common Mistakes and Prevention
Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes to avoid when cleaning gum from outdoor surfaces. These things are:
- Saving unused portions of stain-removal materials: It is important not to save unused portions of stain-removal materials as they may lose their effectiveness over time. Always use fresh materials when cleaning outdoor surfaces.
- Storing chemicals in unmarked containers: Chemicals should never be stored in unmarked containers as this can lead to confusion and accidents. Always label containers clearly with the name of the chemical and any safety warnings.
- Poor ventilation: When using solvents, it is essential to have excellent ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes. Use respirators with solvents to protect yourself from exposure.
- Scraping towards your body: Always scrape away from your body when removing gum from hard surfaces to avoid accidents.
- Using sharp tools: Never use a metal putty knife or other sharp tool to remove gum as the sharp edge can damage the surface, especially carpet fibers.
- Not removing clothing before using Goo Gone: Before using Goo Gone to remove gum from fabric, always remove the clothing first and launder it separately with extra care.
Preparing for Gum Removal
To get ready for gum removal, you must have the right tools and supplies. Among these are:
- Adequate wash solutions: Provide adequate wash solutions such as water, soap, and towels before starting the job.
- Rinsing with water: Whenever acid is used, the surface should be thoroughly rinsed with water as soon as its action has been adequate, otherwise, it will continue etching the concrete even though the stain is gone.
- Using a wood or plastic spatula: Scrape off as much chewing gum as possible using a wood or plastic spatula.
- Using a gel-based solvent: To remove any residual staining after chewing gum removal, use a gel-based solvent such as an oil, grease, adhesive, and tar remover. Apply the gel directly to the gum, spot, or stained area, and after 5 minutes, use a gum scraper tool, plastic putty knife, or other safe scraping tool to work the gel into the gum to remove it from the surface.
Preventing Gum from Sticking
The best way to avoid having to clean up gum later is to keep it from sticking to outdoor surfaces.
There are a number of ways to stop gum from sticking, such as:
- Banning gum altogether: One way to prevent gum from sticking is to ban it altogether, as many UK workplaces and the entirety of Singapore have done.
- Placing bins next to outside areas: Another way is to ensure that there are plenty of bins available for people to dispose of their gum. Placing bins next to outside areas where people are likely to chew gum can help prevent it from ending up on the ground.
Removing Gum from Outdoor Surfaces
If gum does get stuck to something outside, there are a few ways to get it off. These things are:
- Hardening the gum with ice: One method involves hardening the gum with ice and then scraping it off with a small tool.
- Using oil to loosen the bond: Another method involves using oil to loosen the bond between the gum and the surface, making it easier to slide off.
- Commercial gum removers: There are also commercial gum removers available that freeze the gum, making it easy to scrape off.
Testing Cleaning Methods
Before cleaning a larger area, you should try any cleaning method on a small, unnoticeable part of the surface to make sure it works well with the surface.
If there are any stains left after the gum is gone, you can clean them with a carpet cleaning product or another suitable cleaner.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
Keeping the outside of a building clean can be hard.
From getting rid of gum to power washing, it can take a lot of time and work to keep your shop looking good.
But hiring a pro to clean outdoor surfaces has a number of perks that can make the job much easier and faster.
Attracting Potential Customers
Hiring a professional to clean outdoor areas can help bring in new customers, which is one of the best reasons to do so.
A clean and neat shop looks much better than one that is dirty and messy.
By taking care of how your shop looks, you can give potential customers a good first impression, which could lead to more business.
Saving Time and Money
Getting a professional to clean your outdoor areas can also save you time and money in the long run.
Cleaning surfaces outside can take a long time if you don’t have the right tools or knowledge.
Professionals have the tools and know-how to clean outdoor areas quickly and well, saving you time and effort.
Hiring a pro can also keep your property from getting damaged, which can save you money on costly repairs in the future.
Environmentally-Friendly Solutions
When people try to clean areas outside on their own, they often use harsh chemicals, which is bad for the environment.
But professional cleaning companies can offer ways to clean outdoor surfaces that are safe for the earth.
They clean with products and methods that are safe for the earth and don’t harm it.
Access to Sophisticated Machines and Expertise
Professionals have access to high-tech tools that make cleaning much faster and easier.
Power washing machines, for example, can clean outdoor areas much faster than the old ways of cleaning.
Also, professionals have more information and experience, so they know what methods to use for each type of surface.
They can clean outside objects without hurting them, which can make your property last longer.
Frequency of Gum Removal
Outdoor areas have to deal with a lot of things, such as traffic, weather, and debris.
Gum, in particular, is often found on outdoor surfaces, even though it doesn’t break down.
Gum also has germs that can cause disease and can live on for a long time after it has been thrown away.
So, it is important to get gum off of outdoor areas so that it doesn’t hurt the environment or people’s health.
Factors that Influence Gum Removal Frequency
How often gum needs to be cleaned off outdoor surfaces depends on how many people walk on them and how much gum is there.
Places with a lot of foot traffic are more likely to get gum buildup, which needs to be cleaned up often.
On the other hand, areas with less foot activity may need gum removal less often.
The amount of gum also affects how often it needs to be taken out.
When gum growth is heavy, it needs to be removed more often than when it is light.
Cleaning Outdoor Surfaces
Cleaning outdoor areas is an important part of keeping them looking nice and keeping them safe.
To keep gum, coffee stains, spills, and oil from sticking to concrete walks, Superior Property Services suggests cleaning and restoring hard surfaces.
The company says that outdoor areas should be cleaned as often as necessary to get rid of gum, pollen, organic debris, dirt, and stains.
Fiberon, a company that makes outdoor flooring, says that decks should be cleaned at least twice a year to get rid of pollen, leaves, dirt, and stains.
When there is mold or mildew on a deck, the company says not to use a pressure cleaner.
Fiberon also says to be very careful when using pressure cleaners and to use pressures of less than 1,500 psi at a distance of 12″ from the deck surface.
Final reflections and implications
In the end, removing gum may seem like a simple job, but it’s a very important part of keeping our outdoor areas clean and safe. Small things, like a piece of gum stuck to the sidewalk, are easy to miss, but they can add up to make a bigger problem.
Think about it: if everyone just threw their gum on the ground, our paths and streets would be full of sticky, unsightly messes. This is not only ugly to look at, but it could also be dangerous. When gum gets wet, it can get slippery and cause people to slip and fall.
So, the next time you see a piece of gum on the ground, think about how hard it is to get rid of it. Even though it seems like a small job, it’s a very important one. And who knows, maybe you’ll be moved to start picking up trash and doing your part to keep our outdoor areas clean.
Remember that it’s the small things that matter most. Let’s all do what we can to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe.
Looking for a new Pressure washer?
Choosing a gadget can be very difficult if you know nothing about the technology.
Some will pay for features they do not need while others may not consider what they really want.
So I created this quick, newbie guide to help you focus on what is really important to you:
The Best Pressure Washer (For You!)
What are some ways you can keep the outside of a house clean?
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Links and references
- GB1 Operating Instructions & User Manual
- Transit Cooperative Research Program report
- facilityexecutive.com
- lovetoknow.com
My article on the topic:
Cleaner Sidewalks: Benefits, Methods & Safety
Note for my reference: (Article status: preliminary)
